As second semester approaches, an infectious disease seems to be hitting high school seniors by storm. The disease can be contracted through: (a) committing to your college of choice; (b) starting your final high school semester; (c) finally finishing your college applications; (d) having contact with other high school seniors that have completed any of the above; or (d) any combination of the above. Common symptoms include, but are not limited to, turning in homework late or not at all, being tardy or absent, forgetting to study for tests, and sleeping in on school days. This extreme lack of motivation that is plaguing the senior class is scientifically referred to as “senioritis” by the medical field. As more and more students commit to colleges earlier through “early decision” and “early action,” the disease is spreading rapidly. The effort they once put into their schoolwork seems to dissipate. One interesting side effect is that high school juniors, upon hearing about this disease, actually seem to suffer many opposite effects for fear of contracting it. As their defense mechanisms kick in, they feel compelled to meet with their college counselors more often, make college lists, stress about their applications, and write essay draft after draft.

As a victim of this infectious disease, I know how serious the impact is on the typical student (and maybe on me if my parents read this article). Having committed to a college in December, I now struggle against doing the bare minimum without having my acceptance withdrawn, or not being able to graduate. TPHS senior Liz has been similarly affected, telling me, “It’s so difficult to stay focused. Now that I know where I’m going, it’s all that I can think about. But I’m also SO excited.” Brad, another diagnosed senior at CCA, shared, “I don’t know where I’m going, but since all my apps are in I know I’ve done everything I can do and my fate for next year is out of my hands. That weight lifted off my shoulders has definitely taken a toll on my motivation; however, I know I have to keep my grades up so I won’t let them slip.”

It is important for anyone who might be suffering from senioritis to take immediate action. While it is great to be less stressed and more relaxed, seniors need to remember that letting their grades slip can result in colleges withdrawing their admission offers and, in extreme cases, might even prevent them from graduating. A recent, highly scientific poll of affected high school seniors taken by a prestigious researcher (me), revealed that most students are doing a good job with this, and that the reduction in stress has actually led to higher GPAs and a better quality of academic performance for some. Seniors, approach second semester with caution, but also enjoy these last few months with your friends, and don’t let the stresses of school make you crazy. As for me, I’m just happy that I managed to get this article done!